And again, about fine art.

 Does argument always yield truth?

Would you hesitate or believe?

Bert was so preoccupied with the original artwork that he winced when the studio door swung open unexpectedly and loudly. Still, he cautiously raised his pointer finger without moving his gaze away from the canvas.

Despite that, he heard Jonathan's harsh, bass voice: ''You've beaten me to it again! But do not expect me to give in to you now.’’

Bert smiled discreetly and motioned for Jonathan to approach the artwork.

Hello, my beloved art lover.

Charlie, the ginger cat, is once again with you.

My borough cats believe I live an exciting existence.

They believe this since my hostess is an artist, and my host often discusses the history of artists and the arts.

They go into too much detail concerning technique, colour, composition, etc. And yet, my master just performed some study on Nicolai Fechin, and I've been listening to his whole history.

So, let me quickly spill the beans before my memory fails me.

In Nicolai Fechin's quiet, sun-dappled studio, the air was thick with the scent of linseed oil and the promise of artistic revelation.

The studio was a tapestry of creativity—a jumble of vibrant canvases, eclectic brushes, and half-finished sketches.

Two art aficionados have gathered here: Bert Phillips, a well-known artist and co-founder of the Taos Society of Artists, and Jonathan Hughes, a discriminating local collector with an eye for excellent art. Their debate revolves around one of Feshin's last appealing paintings, a still life with a bunch of flowers.

Bert felt a sense of bewilderment in Jonathan's eyes. He looked around and focused on the flower still life on the easel to the right of the window.

''So, what are you thinking, colleague?’’- asked Bert.

‘’I must admit that your interest in still life has surprised me.

As far as I know, you are an expert in landscape painting art.

Let's not debate; I'll purchase this canvas for our association's collection.’

Jonathan responded with a big grin and squinted eyes.

''How do you know about my preferences, my dear?

I want to purchase this canvas painting for my future bride’s collection!

That is why I do not plan to give in to you today!''

But the following minute, Jonathan decided to alter tactics and questioned Bert with purposeful calm.

"Conversely, sir, I'd be interested in your analysis of this still life."

After all, you are an artist, but I am merely an art lover.

But, honestly, I invest in it for more than just love.

OK, Jonathan, Bert started to talk as a professor educating pupils. 

His still life art painting is fantastic. Look at how Fechin grabs light. The blossoms sparkle from inside. It's as if he's managed to instill them with inner energy. It's a new type of realism: more intense and direct. 

Fechin's approach to still life is far from conventional. He doesn't merely paint what he sees; he converts the topic into an intense experience.

 The brushwork here is quite lively, and the colours are both brilliant and profound. It's as if he's trying to capture both the sight of these blossoms and their soul and vitality." 

And it isn't only the flowers.

Look at the backdrop and how he contrasts the delicate colours of the petals with the deeper, almost melancholy tones behind them. It produces a dramatic impact that pulls the viewer into the artwork.

Hughes agrees, continuing to play his role as a student, but his excitement is palpable.

 "Exactly. Consider Fechin's background. His early schooling in Russia and subsequent influences from his experience in America gave him a distinct viewpoint. He merged traditional methods with a contemporary sensibility, as seen by his approach to the still-life genre. He raises it from an essential depiction to something practically sublime.

As an artist, Phillips understands Fechin's work's technical qualities.

At the same time, Hughes, with his enormous experience as a collector, provides a surprising offer: ‘’Now tell me honestly, my dear friend, would you dare to deny a woman (my bride) the pleasure of witnessing this masterpiece in her own home? 

Are you, as a genuine gentleman, truly capable of accepting this?

Phillips and Hughes wrap up their debate as the afternoon sunsets, illuminating the studio.

Nicolai Fechin’s wall artwork was added to Jonathan's collection.

His work continues to captivate and inspire, inviting viewers to experience the world through his unique lens and as a reminder of the enduring power of art to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty surrounding us.

In summary, Nicolai Fechin’s impact on American art is well-remembered and continues to be recognized in the modern art community. His innovative techniques, distinctive style, and the unique cultural synthesis he achieved have cemented his place as a significant figure in art history.

His work continues to impact modern artists today.

For example, and this is my personal opinion, one of the most recent pieces by artist ElenaG, "Just a May Day," strikingly resembles several of the Master's works.

By the way, this is her original art for sale.

Original oil painting ''Just a May Day.''

Those interested may ask for any details in the forms below the blog.

Set of three still-lifes made by ElenaG.